Prioritize facility layout and racking, SLA commitments for pick/pack and shipping, integration capability with your WMS/ecommerce platforms, local carrier connectivity, and value-added service capability (kitting, returns). Evaluate throughput metrics, peak capacity, and contingency plans for seasonal spikes.

Costs are typically lower for local last-mile delivery and shorter for eastern regional routes due to proximity. Centralized hubs may offer economies on long-haul lanes, but staging inventory in Choibalsan reduces last-mile spend and transit time for eastern Mongolia and cross-border customers.

Look for real-time WMS with API connectivity, barcode/RFID-enabled inventory control, carrier rate shopping, and returns management. Also confirm physical infrastructure: secure racking, climate control options, dock configuration, and handling equipment suited to your SKU profile.

Request site visits, operational KPIs (OTD, order accuracy, inventory variance), client references, and proof of insurance. Run a pilot program with a limited SKU set, validate integration testing, and include performance-based SLAs with clear remediation terms in the contract.